This Moved MeMon, 02 Sep 2019 10:00:00 +0000Mon, 02 Sep 2019 10:05:32 +0000Libsyn WebEngine 2.0http://thismovedme.com
Unitehttp://thismovedme.cominfo@thismovedme.com (info@thismovedme.com)http://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/c/e/c/7/cec74f5a804d1212/soapy.pngThis Moved MeThis Moved Me Productions, on presentation insights, stories, tips and inspauthenticity,entrepreneur,entrepreneurship,influence,leaders,leadership,powerofstory,presentationadvice,presentationtips,presenting,publicspeaking,speakers,speaking,story,storytelling,usingyourvoicenosally@thismovedme.comepisodic205: Three Things To Cut From Your StoriesMon, 02 Sep 2019 10:00:00 +0000I’m a BIG BELIEVER in editing! Editing is one of those skills as a speaker we don’t often talk about - but I think of editing as a leadership tool. It forces you to decide not just what you’re going to say -= but what you aren’t. It forces you to amok some decisions about what’s most important, most needed.

And as I was thinking about how editing interacts with storytelling - I kept thinking of a few “extra” things that seem to creep up in people’s stories, and that just don’t help you make your point well. They get in the way - they slow you down - they confuse the audience - they make it harder to deliver - they keep you from really excelling at this art form.

So - let’s dive in…. 3 things you need to cut from your story:

]]>10:00nofull204: The Biggest Hangup Most Storytellers FaceThu, 29 Aug 2019 15:50:32 +0000This episode is brought to you by my NEW MASTERCLASS - “How to captivate your audience with story - without feeling like a failure on stage”… You know that feeling, right? - that feeling like you just didn’t CONNECT, things didn’t CLICK, that moment didn’t land… I have been having so many conversations with these amazingly brilliant people who are out there and just feeling like something’s not working…And getting things to work for you is my speciality. :) So, I want to invite you ALL to join me for this FREE MASTERCLASS going on starting on September 4th for a really limited time… jam-packed resource for those of us who want to move our audiences… and there’s ONE THING you need to master to really do it well…

So, join me at https://www.captivatemasterclass.com

I’d love to see you there!

Ok, let’s dive in to this week’s episode!

On today’s episode we’re going to be talking about the biggest hangup I see again and again with speakers as they begin to develop their story… And I want to get it out there so that - even if you don’t end up taking the course with me next month, you avoid this hangup…

And that is: telling a GENERIC story, that’s not really a story.

]]>This episode is brought to you by my NEW MASTERCLASS - “How to captivate your audience with story - without feeling like a failure on stage”… You know that feeling, right? - that feeling like you just didn’t CONNECT, things didn’t CLICK, that moment didn’t land… I have been having so many conversations with these amazingly brilliant people who are out there and just feeling like something’s not working…And getting things to work for you is my speciality. :) So, I want to invite you ALL to join me for this FREE MASTERCLASS going on starting on September 4th for a really limited time… jam-packed resource for those of us who want to move our audiences… and there’s ONE THING you need to master to really do it well…

So, join me at https://www.captivatemasterclass.com

I’d love to see you there!

Ok, let’s dive in to this week’s episode!

On today’s episode we’re going to be talking about the biggest hangup I see again and again with speakers as they begin to develop their story… And I want to get it out there so that - even if you don’t end up taking the course with me next month, you avoid this hangup…

And that is: telling a GENERIC story, that’s not really a story.

]]>09:27nofull203: 3 Strategies To Be A Storytelling ProTue, 20 Aug 2019 10:00:00 +0000There are some pro strategies I've seen the pro storytellers use that ANY of us can use... and it will greatly affect the impact of your stories! Check them out:]]>There are some pro strategies I've seen the pro storytellers use that ANY of us can use... and it will greatly affect the impact of your stories! Check them out:]]>09:46nofull202: Which Story Do I Share?Tue, 13 Aug 2019 21:20:21 +0000One of the biggest questions speakers ask themselves before starting a talk is… which story do I tell? We know stories are essential and powerful - but WHICH story can determine how well your audience connects with you, and your idea. Check out this week’s episode to learn the 8 qualities that can help you assess your story (plus - a free download to help you!).]]>One of the biggest questions speakers ask themselves before starting a talk is… which story do I tell? We know stories are essential and powerful - but WHICH story can determine how well your audience connects with you, and your idea. Check out this week’s episode to learn the 8 qualities that can help you assess your story (plus - a free download to help you!).]]>29:33nofull201: The Magic is in the Every Day, SpeakersWed, 31 Jul 2019 20:22:10 +0000Here’s the truth: If you can’t see the magic in the every day, you won’t have a story to tell. But when we can see wonder and magic in the every day - and articulate its meaning - the stories will leap out at you, and those stories will move people.]]>Here’s the truth: If you can’t see the magic in the every day, you won’t have a story to tell. But when we can see wonder and magic in the every day - and articulate its meaning - the stories will leap out at you, and those stories will move people.]]>05:44nofull200: Is Speaking Genetic?Mon, 01 Jul 2019 21:08:29 +0000So, yesterday I got a message from a friend of mine showing me the results of his 23andMe report.... saying that he was genetically predisposed to a fear of public speaking. (And he speaks quite a bit.)

Hmmm! Interesting!

By the end of the day, another 3 people had reached out with their own results on this same thing. (23andMe - nice marketing!)

So... I HAVE OPINIONS!

]]>So, yesterday I got a message from a friend of mine showing me the results of his 23andMe report.... saying that he was genetically predisposed to a fear of public speaking. (And he speaks quite a bit.)

Hmmm! Interesting!

By the end of the day, another 3 people had reached out with their own results on this same thing. (23andMe - nice marketing!)

How long should it take to prep for this big talk?

My answer is typically: More than you think.

With incredibly busy lives, juggling way more than one thing at a time - prepping for our talks often gets squeezed. Add onto that the mental and emotional challenge of developing a talk… well, avoidance and procrastination can take on a life of its own.

I get it! It’s not easy to create space when the more seemingly urgent can easily jump to the front of the line. But often the last few days and hours and moments before a talk, we are then faced with that moment of regret…

I wish I would have taken more time for this. I wish I would have practiced this more. I wish I knew this better. I wish….

No more wishing!

It’s 2019 - let’s do things differently this year.

]]>People ask me all the time: How long should it take to prep for this big talk?

My answer is typically: More than you think.

With incredibly busy lives, juggling way more than one thing at a time - prepping for our talks often gets squeezed. Add onto that the mental and emotional challenge of developing a talk… well, avoidance and procrastination can take on a life of its own.

I get it! It’s not easy to create space when the more seemingly urgent can easily jump to the front of the line. But often the last few days and hours and moments before a talk, we are then faced with that moment of regret…

I wish I would have taken more time for this. I wish I would have practiced this more. I wish I knew this better. I wish….

There were all kinds of signs pointing me to JOY: a journal that jumped out to me at the craft store; our Christmas card; a talk I heard; my latest Netflix craze watching Marie Kondo “spark joy”… The universe has been laying down little pebbles for me on this one.

But what does JOY have to do with you - and what does JOY have to do with speaking?

I think Joy is an essential element of speaking that MOVES people.

Not convinced? Take a listen:

]]>JOY.

There were all kinds of signs pointing me to JOY: a journal that jumped out to me at the craft store; our Christmas card; a talk I heard; my latest Netflix craze watching Marie Kondo “spark joy”… The universe has been laying down little pebbles for me on this one.

But what does JOY have to do with you - and what does JOY have to do with speaking?

I think Joy is an essential element of speaking that MOVES people.

Not convinced? Take a listen:

]]>23:33nofull197: How do we tell our stories with authenticity? (The Speaking Story Course is open!) Fri, 26 Oct 2018 21:04:17 +0000Movers, today is the final idea about how we can bring our idea to life through our Speaking Stories course that goes live Oct. 30th! If you are listening to this it means that the cart is open! After I talk with you about what it is - and why it is - I hope you’ll join us over the next few weeks while we bring our stories more to life and to your audience so it’s out there moving the world! Go to www.speakingstory.com to sign up!]]>Movers, today is the final idea about how we can bring our idea to life through our Speaking Stories course that goes live Oct. 30th! If you are listening to this it means that the cart is open! After I talk with you about what it is - and why it is - I hope you’ll join us over the next few weeks while we bring our stories more to life and to your audience so it’s out there moving the world! Go to www.speakingstory.com to sign up!]]>08:58nofull196: Three Core Beliefs We Need to Speak With AuthenticityWed, 24 Oct 2018 14:57:15 +0000Bringing your story to life…

To do that, we need to believe some things - deep down - before we can take the stage with courage and authenticity. Last week I talked about Six Rookie Storytelling Mistakes (and what to do instead).

But this week - in anticipation of the Speaking Story course that opens for enrollment this coming Friday - we are diving into three beliefs all of my speakers wrestle with to some level or another (and from one day to another)!

]]>Bringing your story to life…

To do that, we need to believe some things - deep down - before we can take the stage with courage and authenticity. Last week I talked about Six Rookie Storytelling Mistakes (and what to do instead).

But this week - in anticipation of the Speaking Story course that opens for enrollment this coming Friday - we are diving into three beliefs all of my speakers wrestle with to some level or another (and from one day to another)!

]]>21:19nofull195: Outing the Story Behind My Speaking SuperpowerWed, 17 Oct 2018 15:57:31 +0000One of my favorite parts of doing workshops is when I help people discover the ‘THING’ that makes their voice unique. The thing that is essential to them. The thing that, despite our misguided efforts to polish up, layer up and perfect our role as “speaker” (whatever that means!)… well, it still eeks out. :) Which, honestly, is a wonderful wonderful thing, and the HEART of AUTHENTICITY! I call it your Speaking Superpower. If we can own it - it’s powerful.

Part of owning it is sharing it!…So here goes:

]]>12:53nofull194: Discovering Your Speaking SuperpowerMon, 15 Oct 2018 07:30:00 +0000To my delight, authenticity has been a buzz word and goal of speakers for a long time. As “talks” have become a preferred and powerful platform for LEADERS (not just professional and motivational speakers), the door has opened to more and more people to share their stories in their own way.

This, my friends/speakers/movers!, is a wonderful thing! As a presentation coach whose mission is to create talks that move the world (not to create talks that are perfect and overly polished and ‘right but boring’) - I LOVE that audiences want more than just the standard chicken-dinner presentation.

They want REAL.

They want BRAVE.

They want… YOU.

That’s the good news.

But it also means that more and more of us are finding ourselves up in front, and the bar is higher. Leading. Speaking. Daring.

And in that big moment… sometimes WE DON’T FEEL LIKE OURSELVES. It can sometimes feel like we’re playing a role, or being a “character” of a speaker.

Who do you become up on stage?

Hopefully, you are YOU…Your best friend should be able to recognize you on stage as the best and most daring version of yourself!

Because there is something essential about you that is true across the board, whoever we are and whatever we’re doing. An energy that flows from you, straight out into the world. And that energy is your speaking superpower. Defining, knowing and utilizing it can help you own the moment and bring your most free and authentic voice to the stage.

So I’m going to walk you through a process by which you can DISCOVER Your Speaking Superpower!

]]>Who do you become up on stage? Hopefully, you are YOU…Your best friend should be able to recognize you on stage as the best and most daring version of yourself! Because there is something essential about you that is true across the board, whoever we are and whatever we’re doing. An energy that flows from you, straight out into the world. And that energy is your speaking superpower. Defining, knowing and utilizing it can help you own the moment and bring your most free and authentic voice to the stage. So I’m going to walk you through a process by which you can DISCOVER Your Speaking Superpower!]]>17:37nofull193: Six Rookie Storytelling Mistakes (and what to do instead)Wed, 10 Oct 2018 14:07:41 +0000What’s the biggest mistakes people make?…

This is one of those questions I get again and again!

and well, if we’re talking about Delivery or Preparation or Content development or Mindset - I answer them each differently. And today I want to answer it in the context of STORY…

The 6 biggest rookie storytelling mistakes… so you won’t make them, too!

Let’s dive in!

]]>22:32nofull192: On Knowing When Your Story is Ready to Be ToldWed, 26 Sep 2018 07:30:00 +0000I remember watching this really famous speaker once tell a story that I KNEW she wasn’t ready to tell yet. It was too much - too powerful, still - still too emotionally raw…

(And I’ve also seen speakers who are so far beyond their stories - that it doesn’t have any emotional resonance left. They’ve told it too many times, it’s lost its power for them… there’s no emotive connection left. It’s been used up. )

What struck me was that she was telling the story because she NEEDED to. It was a part of HER healing. And that’s not nothing.

Would I recommend it? Nope….

There are those stories that we’re just not ready to tell yet because we ourselves aren’t healed enough. Listen to that instinct. It may not be ready yet. It might be too raw.

So how do we know when a story is ready to be told?

]]>I remember watching this really famous speaker once tell a story that I KNEW she wasn’t ready to tell yet. It was too much - too powerful, still - still too emotionally raw…

(And I’ve also seen speakers who are so far beyond their stories - that it doesn’t have any emotional resonance left. They’ve told it too many times, it’s lost its power for them… there’s no emotive connection left. It’s been used up. )

What struck me was that she was telling the story because she NEEDED to. It was a part of HER healing. And that’s not nothing.

Would I recommend it? Nope….

There are those stories that we’re just not ready to tell yet because we ourselves aren’t healed enough. Listen to that instinct. It may not be ready yet. It might be too raw.

So how do we know when a story is ready to be told?]]>08:53nofull191: On the Problem with Credibility In Sharing Our StoriesWed, 19 Sep 2018 07:30:00 +0000Credibility is getting in the way of you sharing your story.

What will they think of me if I share that one experience that doesn’t put me in the best of lights?

What if I talk about how I failed?

what if I share my biggest mistake?… will they still respect and admire me?

Even though we’re told again and again - Queen Brene, you are PREACHING THIS - that people appreciate and admire the bravery of vulnerability…

Especially in a work context, too many of us - to protect our credibility - stop short of sharing what’s real.

]]>10:53nofull190: On Making YOUR Story Matter to OthersWed, 12 Sep 2018 19:18:31 +0000So - today’s episode is getting us ready for that course… in the first episode of the series we talked about what an origin story is… and last week we talked about one of the biggest myths that keeps us from really sharing who we are and what we think…

TAKING THAT ME ME ME (or what can sometimes FEEL like me me me) and turning it into US US US.

Taking the personal, individual, specific…. and finding the universal in it.

Which is THE POINT of sharing our stories.

Because of course it is NOT to just talk about ourselves.

We want our audience to find THEMSELVES in OUR STORY.

]]>18:45nofull189: On What Might Be Holding You Back from Sharing Your StoryWed, 05 Sep 2018 21:25:42 +0000So today’s episode is based on a conversation I had with one of my speakers, who has also been a guest here on This Moved Me… I’m a HUGE fan of his, and he’s doing such important work. Tony Loyd. He’s the host of the Social Entrepreneur podcast, and he’s really building up his speaking work, because he’s so driven to get his ideas out into the world. He is NOT interested in getting HIMSELF out into the world… he’s

So he’s a very typical - what I call - unspeaker. Despite the fact that he’s incredibly experienced - he’s been in the C-Suite, he’s been up on front of audiences for years - he still has a level of self-doubt or fear or myths that get in the way of him fully owning the moment and… to the point of my show today… his story.

(By the way, EVERY SPEAKER struggles with this… unspeakers just admit it, and vulnerably walk into their efforts to change it… which is what makes their talks so compelling, authentic, and moving…)

So when Tony and I sat down to work on his 2nd TEDx talk… he shared that he wasn’t as happy with his first talk as he wanted to be… it was good, great response… but he also knew he could do more, dig deeper (unspeaker!)… And he mentioned - so honestly - that he knew he needed to share more of his story… but he was afraid.

Of what, I asked?

That somehow sharing about HIS story made it about him. All me me me, he said.

Which is a myth of our origin stories - or ANY story we tell. If it’s our story, the point isn’t to talk about US… the point is to open up the connection between the experience, and the idea.

]]>So today’s episode is based on a conversation I had with one of my speakers, who has also been a guest here on This Moved Me… I’m a HUGE fan of his, and he’s doing such important work. Tony Loyd. He’s the host of the Social Entrepreneur podcast, and he’s really building up his speaking work, because he’s so driven to get his ideas out into the world. He is NOT interested in getting HIMSELF out into the world… he’s

So he’s a very typical - what I call - unspeaker. Despite the fact that he’s incredibly experienced - he’s been in the C-Suite, he’s been up on front of audiences for years - he still has a level of self-doubt or fear or myths that get in the way of him fully owning the moment and… to the point of my show today… his story.

(By the way, EVERY SPEAKER struggles with this… unspeakers just admit it, and vulnerably walk into their efforts to change it… which is what makes their talks so compelling, authentic, and moving…)

So when Tony and I sat down to work on his 2nd TEDx talk… he shared that he wasn’t as happy with his first talk as he wanted to be… it was good, great response… but he also knew he could do more, dig deeper (unspeaker!)… And he mentioned - so honestly - that he knew he needed to share more of his story… but he was afraid.

Of what, I asked?

That somehow sharing about HIS story made it about him. All me me me, he said.

Which is a myth of our origin stories - or ANY story we tell. If it’s our story, the point isn’t to talk about US… the point is to open up the connection between the experience, and the idea.

I’m going to be sharing a course over on Movers-U on how to develop and own a powerful and authentic origin story in October… so excited about it. And so I’ll be - starting today - a series about our Origin Stories - to prepare for it.

So before I dive into some ideas around the challenges and importance of doing this - and walk you through some critical steps in terms of HOW to do it…

I wanted to spend the show today talking about WHAT IT IS.

What is an origin story?

]]>I want to talk about Origin stories.

I’m going to be sharing a course over on Movers-U on how to develop and own a powerful and authentic origin story in October… so excited about it. And so I’ll be - starting today - a series about our Origin Stories - to prepare for it.

So before I dive into some ideas around the challenges and importance of doing this - and walk you through some critical steps in terms of HOW to do it…

I wanted to spend the show today talking about WHAT IT IS.

What is an origin story?

]]>20:06nofull187: Carmen Simon - On Making Your Talk MemorableWed, 22 Aug 2018 21:47:39 +0000CarmenSimon - neuroscientist, best-selling author, speaker - uncovers the importance of knowing why and how we can remember things in the hopes that the message we have will stick with our audience forever. Her neuroscience background gave light to important insights to how we can tailer our talk to be extra impactful! ]]>Carmen Simon - neuroscientist, best-selling author, speaker - uncovers the importance of knowing why and how we can remember things in the hopes that the message we have will stick with our audience forever. Her neuroscience background gave light to important insights to how we can tailer our talk to be extra impactful! ]]>53:57nofull186: On Being Your Virtual Presentation CoachWed, 15 Aug 2018 07:30:00 +0000Welcome, Movers! The new and improved WEBSITE is finally here! I am so proud of how it came together and hope you enjoy it as much as I do. My hope is that this website will become a home of resources for you as you begin or continue on your speaking journey! Check it out: http://www.thismovedme.com]]>Welcome, Movers! The new and improved WEBSITE is finally here! I am so proud of how it came together and hope you enjoy it as much as I do. My hope is that this website will become a home of resources for you as you begin or continue on your speaking journey! Check it out: http://www.thismovedme.com]]>23:18nofullMMM: 185 - Making the Point of Your Talk Clear - 7/7 testWed, 08 Aug 2018 07:30:00 +0000Articulating clearly the point of your talk is one of the most difficult areas for speakers to master. It is not uncommon to start your talk and pretty soon you have five talks within one actual talk! Sometimes the idea we are trying to articulate is complicated - our job is to make it easy for our audience. Keeping the audience in mind when narrowing the point of your talk is essential.

As speakers, we are meaning makers. We are trying to convey a new idea and bring meaning to that, which is why delivering it in a simple way is crucial. To effectively do this, the point of your talk must be these three things:

Clear

Meaningful

Intriguing

Now, here is the challenge! I believe that in order to achieve an effective talk, you should be able to pass the 7/7 test! You should be able to articulate the point of your talk in 7 seconds so that a 7-year-old can understand it.

]]>Articulating clearly the point of your talk is one of the most difficult areas for speakers to master. It is not uncommon to start your talk and pretty soon you have five talks within one actual talk! Sometimes the idea we are trying to articulate is complicated - our job is to make it easy for our audience. Keeping the audience in mind when narrowing the point of your talk is essential.

As speakers, we are meaning makers. We are trying to convey a new idea and bring meaning to that, which is why delivering it in a simple way is crucial. To effectively do this, the point of your talk must be these three things:

Clear

Meaningful

Intriguing

Now, here is the challenge! I believe that in order to achieve an effective talk, you should be able to pass the 7/7 test! You should be able to articulate the point of your talk in 7 seconds so that a 7-year-old can understand it.

]]>22:49nofull184: Tony Loyd - On Becoming a Thought LeaderWed, 01 Aug 2018 07:30:00 +0000Want to become a Thought Leader? Of course you do!

Tony Loyd - raido host, author, speaker and thought leader! - moves the world with his unique perspective on how to do well and do good at the same time. Like many of us may have felt at some point in our lives, Tony needed a change in his life. He decided to take the leap to go do what his heart was longing for - mentor others on how to live a life where profit and purpose are intertwined.

Through Tony’s journey, he learned an important lesson that would ultimately shape the speaker and thought leader he is today. He began to understand what it means to show up as your authentic self when you speak. To bring every piece of your self to your talk in order to serve your audience in the way they need. Although this wasn’t easy at first, it helped Tony to create talks that move the world and to help others to do the same.

]]>Want to become a Thought Leader? Of course you do!

Tony Loyd - raido host, author, speaker and thought leader! - moves the world with his unique perspective on how to do well and do good at the same time. Like many of us may have felt at some point in our lives, Tony needed a change in his life. He decided to take the leap to go do what his heart was longing for - mentor others on how to live a life where profit and purpose are intertwined.

Through Tony’s journey, he learned an important lesson that would ultimately shape the speaker and thought leader he is today. He began to understand what it means to show up as your authentic self when you speak. To bring every piece of your self to your talk in order to serve your audience in the way they need. Although this wasn’t easy at first, it helped Tony to create talks that move the world and to help others to do the same.

]]>58:21nofull183: MMM - On Finding Your CheerleadersThu, 26 Jul 2018 16:25:51 +0000A few weeks ago I got a text message from one of my speakers who needed a little encouragement before jumping up on stage. And I am always honored to be able to do the encouraging. It's not a small thing, and it's not fluffy. It is essential, and empowering!

So - Who is your cheerleader?

]]>A few weeks ago I got a text message from one of my speakers who needed a little encouragement before jumping up on stage. And I am always honored to be able to do the encouraging. It's not a small thing, and it's not fluffy. It is essential, and empowering!

So - Who is your cheerleader?

]]>11:06nofull182: MMM Q&A - How do I get better at storytelling?Wed, 18 Jul 2018 07:30:00 +0000Movers, this episode is all about something every speaker should aim to master in their talks.

My friend Scott reached out and asked me, “I wanna get better at being a storyteller with my talks, any recommendations?”

So, I came up with my top five recommendations for becoming a master at the art of storytelling!

]]>Movers, this episode is all about something every speaker should aim to master in their talks.

My friend Scott reached out and asked me, “I wanna get better at being a storyteller with my talks, any recommendations?”

So, I came up with my top five recommendations for becoming a master at the art of storytelling!

]]>22:09nofull181: Olivia Mitchell: On Getting Over the Fear of DisapprovalWed, 11 Jul 2018 19:49:48 +0000Olivia Mitchell - Presentation Trainer, Speaker, Introvert - aims to redefine the expectations of speaking. Living in New Zealand, Olivia uses her professional presenting skills to speak up about what she is passionate about.

Addressing real-world needs, Olivia sets out to use her voice to make a difference while helping others do the same. All of this - as an introvert. Olivia dedicates her craft to develop ways in which other introverts, like herself, can be just as confident and effective public speakers. She lives by the notion that anyone can speak with confidence despite the obstacles.

]]>Olivia Mitchell - Presentation Trainer, Speaker, Introvert - aims to redefine the expectations of speaking. Living in New Zealand, Olivia uses her professional presenting skills to speak up about what she is passionate about.

Addressing real-world needs, Olivia sets out to use her voice to make a difference while helping others do the same. All of this - as an introvert. Olivia dedicates her craft to develop ways in which other introverts, like herself, can be just as confident and effective public speakers. She lives by the notion that anyone can speak with confidence despite the obstacles.

]]>42:13nofull180: MMM - On Talking to Walls (An Ode to High School Speech)Wed, 04 Jul 2018 07:30:00 +0000Recently, the National Speech and Debate tournament took place in Florida. I have been reflecting on when I had the opportunity to participate in this very tournament during my high school speech days - and I won! I was awarded the National Championship of Original Oratory. My coaches were incredible during this experience and helped so much! When reflecting on this time, I had the chance to truly realize how crucial this moment was to the path that led me to where I am today. I learned so much from speech and how special it really is. With that being said, I dedicated this episode as an ode to the high school sport that shaped who I am today - speech!]]>Recently, the National Speech and Debate tournament took place in Florida. I have been reflecting on when I had the opportunity to participate in this very tournament during my high school speech days - and I won! I was awarded the National Championship of Original Oratory. My coaches were incredible during this experience and helped so much! When reflecting on this time, I had the chance to truly realize how crucial this moment was to the path that led me to where I am today. I learned so much from speech and how special it really is. With that being said, I dedicated this episode as an ode to the high school sport that shaped who I am today - speech!]]>12:10nofull179: MMM - On Repeating Our Content Without Being a FakeWed, 27 Jun 2018 07:30:00 +0000Chuck Schumer’s repetition of his stump graduation speech was caught on tape… many, many times!… and put together, in one hilarious montage on John Oliver’s show Last Week Tonight. (ps, I love this show - so smart and so funny) When I saw this video… I laughed, and then I cringed…

Why? Because let’s be honest: we repeat our content. Of course we do! I And it’s necessary for a few reasons. So, what do we do? How do we repeat our content without being a fake (and being Chuck Schumer)?

]]>Chuck Schumer’s repetition of his stump graduation speech was caught on tape… many, many times!… and put together, in one hilarious montage on John Oliver’s show Last Week Tonight. (ps, I love this show - so smart and so funny) When I saw this video… I laughed, and then I cringed…

Why? Because let’s be honest: we repeat our content. Of course we do! I And it’s necessary for a few reasons. So, what do we do? How do we repeat our content without being a fake (and being Chuck Schumer)?

]]>18:10nofull178: Mel Burt-Gracik - On How to Overcome PerfectionismWed, 20 Jun 2018 07:30:00 +0000Mel Burt-Gracik - Management Consultant, Career Transition Coach, Speaker- is authentically herself. Mel helps managers lead their teams better in the work environment. Her goal is to help her clients say, “I look forward to coming to work everyday.”

Mel aims to create psychological safety at work in a way where individuals emotional needs are not just recognized - they are embraced. She knows first hand how failure is not a bad thing - it is just another stepping stone on the pathway to success. Ditching perfection, Mel chooses to always own who she is which ultimately shines through her craft.

]]>Mel Burt-Gracik - Management Consultant, Career Transition Coach, Speaker- is authentically herself. Mel helps managers lead their teams better in the work environment. Her goal is to help her clients say, “I look forward to coming to work everyday.”

Mel aims to create psychological safety at work in a way where individuals emotional needs are not just recognized - they are embraced. She knows first hand how failure is not a bad thing - it is just another stepping stone on the pathway to success. Ditching perfection, Mel chooses to always own who she is which ultimately shines through her craft.

]]>44:20nofull177: MMM - On Starting Your Talk With Perfection In MindWed, 13 Jun 2018 14:58:23 +0000In the last week, I’ve had several conversations with you about that moment when I’m asking you to stand up and give it a go… the moment when we’re trying this all on for size. All the words we’ve fussed over, the ideas we’ve thoughtfully and painstakingly clarified - dug deeper to to get it ‘just right’ - and then we’re at the moment where we’re putting it to the test. Taking it from theory to practice. And it feels like a big moment.

Just this week I’ve heard things like:

I’m feeling really vulnerable

I’m nervous

What if I hate this?

Ugh! I hate this!

And I know you don’t hate what we’ve created; you are simply afraid this work is not going to work.

I get it.

There’s no way to get to the other side without going through. And to get through, we have to get uncomfortable.

We have to… And I’m guessing you’ve heard this before… you have let go of the perfect presentation - the idea that’s in our heads and that we imagine for ourselves and that is making taking this step so darn hard.

]]>I’m feeling really vulnerable I’m nervousWhat if I hate this? Ugh! I hate this! And I know you don’t hate what we’ve created; you are simply afraid this work is not going to work. I get it. There’s no way to get to the other side without going through. And to get through, we have to get uncomfortable. We have to… And I’m guessing you’ve heard this before… you have let go of the perfect presentation - the idea that’s in our heads and that we imagine for ourselves and that is making taking this step so darn hard. ]]>11:41nofull176: MMM - Dear UnSpeakers...Wed, 06 Jun 2018 19:18:03 +0000A little note to you, my un-speakers…

So, to start… an un-speaker? What is that?

An un-speaker is someone who might not define themselves as a speaker, and yet you speak! You are a change-maker - idea-driven, audience-focused, battle with wondering whether or not you’re ‘doing it right’, want to make an impact and understand that to be transformational, you must yourself transform at some level. You speak without being one of ‘those’ speakers…(a bore, a chore, a perfectly perfect snore). A speaker who breaks the mold, who rejects the myths of what speaking is or what we think it should be, who is going for - above all - AUTHENTICITY, CONNECTION and COURAGE.

If that’s you. Then guess what? You’re an un-speaker!

]]>06:38nofull175: Tamsen Webster - On How to Get Your Audience to ChangeWed, 30 May 2018 07:30:00 +0000Tamsen Webster - speaker, presentation strategist, TEDX producer, messaging guru - brings her delightful spark to our conversation about how to not just get your audience to listen... but how to get them to CHANGE.]]>Tamsen Webster - speaker, presentation strategist, TEDX producer, messaging guru - brings her delightful spark to our conversation about how to not just get your audience to listen... but how to get them to CHANGE.]]>53:22nofull174: MMM - On the Painful Process of Creating New Content (A Pep Talk for You!)Wed, 23 May 2018 07:30:00 +0000You have a vision of where you want to go... but how do you get there? Turns out, the tumble down into the canyon is the best way to the other side.]]>You have a vision of where you want to go... but how do you get there? Turns out, the tumble down into the canyon is the best way to the other side.]]>14:37nofull173: Matt Abrahams - On Speaking Up Without Freaking OutWed, 16 May 2018 07:30:00 +0000Matt Abrahams is a passionate, collaborative and innovative educator, author, and coach. He is a lecturer at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business where he teaches two very popular classes in Strategic Communication and Effective Virtual Presenting. Additionally, Matt is a professor of communication at De Anza College and an adjunct faculty member for Stanford University’s Continuing Education Program. Also, Matt coaches entrepreneurs from around the world on pitching their ideas as part of Stanford’s Graduate School of Business’s Ignite Program. Matt is especially interested in applying communication knowledge to real-world issues. In service of this goal, he published Speaking Up Without Freaking Out, a book written to help people present and communicate in a more confident, connected, and compelling manner.

On the show, Matt and I talk about some key strategies to calm your body down so you can speak with more confidence and clarity - a need for ALL of us, not just the newbies or introverts. No, siree! We all have some level of anxiety around speaking, so I'm thrilled to share Matt's ideas and insights with you!

]]>Matt Abrahams is a passionate, collaborative and innovative educator, author, and coach. He is a lecturer at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business where he teaches two very popular classes in Strategic Communication and Effective Virtual Presenting. Additionally, Matt is a professor of communication at De Anza College and an adjunct faculty member for Stanford University’s Continuing Education Program. Also, Matt coaches entrepreneurs from around the world on pitching their ideas as part of Stanford’s Graduate School of Business’s Ignite Program. Matt is especially interested in applying communication knowledge to real-world issues. In service of this goal, he published Speaking Up Without Freaking Out, a book written to help people present and communicate in a more confident, connected, and compelling manner.

On the show, Matt and I talk about some key strategies to calm your body down so you can speak with more confidence and clarity - a need for ALL of us, not just the newbies or introverts. No, siree! We all have some level of anxiety around speaking, so I'm thrilled to share Matt's ideas and insights with you!

]]>48:58nofull172: MMM - On How to Create a Spectacular Event, with Todd Hansen and Sarah GillundWed, 09 May 2018 07:30:00 +0000Speakers!

If you speak at events - or pull together events - or attend events! - then you know that HOW an event comes together is really important. And it's way more complicated than most people think...

I'm currently in Milwaukee doing a fundraising event with an awesome team of people who have consistently created and produced some of the most beautiful, stunning and powerful events I've ever had the privilege of being a part of.

And so I've invited these 'all-star' event people into the conversation with me today about how to pull off a spectacular event program!

Meet: Todd Hansen - producer and performer - who knows the ins and outs of doing this work well. And Sarah Gillund, communications guru - who oversees the consistent and beautiful messages that the audience experiences from the first moment to the last.

(We're not talking table centerpieces. Just not my expertise, and I happily hand off front-of-house stuff to someone else) as much as we're talking about what happens 'on stage.')

A good event can inspire action; and a bad one can do the opposite.

So - here are nine ingredients of a spectacular event!

]]>Speakers!

If you speak at events - or pull together events - or attend events! - then you know that HOW an event comes together is really important. And it's way more complicated than most people think...

I'm currently in Milwaukee doing a fundraising event with an awesome team of people who have consistently created and produced some of the most beautiful, stunning and powerful events I've ever had the privilege of being a part of.

And so I've invited these 'all-star' event people into the conversation with me today about how to pull off a spectacular event program!

Meet: Todd Hansen - producer and performer - who knows the ins and outs of doing this work well. And Sarah Gillund, communications guru - who oversees the consistent and beautiful messages that the audience experiences from the first moment to the last.

(We're not talking table centerpieces. Just not my expertise, and I happily hand off front-of-house stuff to someone else) as much as we're talking about what happens 'on stage.')

A good event can inspire action; and a bad one can do the opposite.

So - here are nine ingredients of a spectacular event!

]]>40:52nofull171: AmyK Hutchens - On Delivering a Leadership Message Your Audience (Actually) WantsWed, 02 May 2018 07:30:00 +0000AmyK Hutchens is a speaker, teacher, trainer, entrepreneur and business strategist - and spends most of her year traveling around the globe speaking about leading a more productive and profitable life. She's a business and life coach whose job is to teach from the stage!

We talked about how we as leaders can't just shove the message we think our audience NEEDS down their throats; no, we have to wrap that needed message in what they want:

]]>AmyK Hutchens is a speaker, teacher, trainer, entrepreneur and business strategist - and spends most of her year traveling around the globe speaking about leading a more productive and profitable life. She's a business and life coach whose job is to teach from the stage!

We talked about how we as leaders can't just shove the message we think our audience NEEDS down their throats; no, we have to wrap that needed message in what they want:

]]>41:27nofull170: MMM - On Creating The Best Worst First Draft of Your Presentation, Part ThreeWed, 25 Apr 2018 07:30:00 +0000You wrote a shitty first draft. Congrats!

Then you walked away. AWESOME!

Now... now what? What do we do?

You've still got the kitchen sink, and it's all swirly-whirly and NOT CLEAR. How do we get a little closer to CLEAR??

Here's what you do:

]]>You wrote a shitty first draft. Congrats!

Then you walked away. AWESOME!

Now... now what? What do we do?

You've still got the kitchen sink, and it's all swirly-whirly and NOT CLEAR. How do we get a little closer to CLEAR??

Here's what you do:

]]>06:56yesfull169: MMM - On Creating the Best Worst Draft of Your Presentation, Part TwoWed, 18 Apr 2018 07:30:00 +0000You've written a "shitty first draft" of your presentation.

Congratulations! That's huge.

But now what?

Tune in for Part Two of this three part series to figure out how to jump-start your talk with content that resonates, engages and is authentically grounded in your story.

]]>You've written a "shitty first draft" of your presentation.

Congratulations! That's huge.

But now what?

Tune in for Part Two of this three part series to figure out how to jump-start your talk with content that resonates, engages and is authentically grounded in your story.

]]>05:20yesfull168: MMM - On Writing the Best Worst First Draft of Your Presentation (Part One)Wed, 11 Apr 2018 07:30:00 +0000How do you write the best (worst) first draft of your presentation?

Along with being a theater major in college, I was also an English major. I loved loved loved being on stage (I know), but I also loved to write. Little did I know I was basically creating for myself the building blocks of my life now. All I knew then was that I loved them both and didn’t want to choose. (Funny how I rejected the idea of being a communications major. Nope, didn’t want that.)

Anyway - I remember sitting in what was infamously known as being a really difficult writing class with Sister Mara. (It was a small liberal arts catholic college.) Sister Mara was a really tough grader - but a brilliant mentor and guide. The assignment was to come up with a metaphor for the process of writing…

You guys - I LOVE METAPHORS! They are the best... so meaty, and you can create and assign so much meaning in them… and to me, that’s the best kind of meaning to find… in layers of other things, because it helps us FEEL those ideas more? - ya know?

Anyway - I remember sitting there and thinking that my metaphor for writing was a make-out session. (So very senior year in college of me to say!)

But essentially what I was thinking was that writing is exploratory for me…

Now, as a grown-up I might say something more like writing is like a walk I took through the Redwoods in Northern California several years ago in this beautiful, sort of mystical place… exploratory, searching, I don’t know where I’ll end up, but I really enjoy the experience of finding out (hahah a- which is really funny if you apply those same ideas to my make-out sessions.( Ahhahaha. Ahem)

ANYWAY.

Some of those same elements apply to us as we create our talks.

We want to go on the journey. We might have an IDEA of where we’re going. We’re not sure how we’re going to get there. And so… we face down the possibility of a draft of... something.

Here are five tips to diving in and writing the best WORST first draft of your talk that you can:

]]>How do you write the best (worst) first draft of your presentation?

Along with being a theater major in college, I was also an English major. I loved loved loved being on stage (I know), but I also loved to write. Little did I know I was basically creating for myself the building blocks of my life now. All I knew then was that I loved them both and didn’t want to choose. (Funny how I rejected the idea of being a communications major. Nope, didn’t want that.)

Anyway - I remember sitting in what was infamously known as being a really difficult writing class with Sister Mara. (It was a small liberal arts catholic college.) Sister Mara was a really tough grader - but a brilliant mentor and guide. The assignment was to come up with a metaphor for the process of writing…

You guys - I LOVE METAPHORS! They are the best... so meaty, and you can create and assign so much meaning in them… and to me, that’s the best kind of meaning to find… in layers of other things, because it helps us FEEL those ideas more? - ya know?

Anyway - I remember sitting there and thinking that my metaphor for writing was a make-out session. (So very senior year in college of me to say!)

But essentially what I was thinking was that writing is exploratory for me…

Now, as a grown-up I might say something more like writing is like a walk I took through the Redwoods in Northern California several years ago in this beautiful, sort of mystical place… exploratory, searching, I don’t know where I’ll end up, but I really enjoy the experience of finding out (hahah a- which is really funny if you apply those same ideas to my make-out sessions.( Ahhahaha. Ahem)

ANYWAY.

Some of those same elements apply to us as we create our talks.

We want to go on the journey. We might have an IDEA of where we’re going. We’re not sure how we’re going to get there. And so… we face down the possibility of a draft of... something.

Here are five tips to diving in and writing the best WORST first draft of your talk that you can:

]]>20:53yesfull167 MMM - On 4 Questions that Create Audience ConnectionWed, 04 Apr 2018 07:30:00 +0000Today I want to talk with you about audience.

How do we prepare our content fora particular audience?

It means that you are preparing a talk for a particular audience… and there are a few questions that I like to ask myself about my audience so make sure that it resonates..

That is the goal…

When our content resonates - it connects. And that’s the whole point!

Resonance and connection is what we’re going for.

Our audience at its very core needs to believe that we know and understand what they’re going through, what they’re struggling with, why there there…

And then we need to have a clear understanding about how we in parciutlar can ease their way a little bit.

What is the thing that you can offer to them that attends to one of the things they’re struggling with.

We’r looking for the venn diagram of audience and speakers- where they and you you connect.

It has nothing to do with being similar -

you don NOT have to be the same person or have the same experience in ANY WAY -

In fact, if you're not it can be really compelling

But your job as a speaker is to find the bridge to your audience.

Check out these 4 questions that are essential in creating a connection with your audience:

]]>14:06nofull166: John Bucher - On Telling Your Story With PassionWed, 28 Mar 2018 07:30:00 +0000John Bucher – a very difficult to define man of many talents (and he likes it that way) – spoke at the STORY Gathering in 2017, where I saw him share his passionate voice about story and myth. What was so great about that whole thing was that even BEFORE I saw him speak, he had volunteered to be my guinea pig speaker at my live coaching workshop.

I mean… who does that? Believe me – that's a rare thing, to vulnerably walk into that space with a coach you've just met. Well, movers, that act connected me and John for life!

What l learned about John from there is that that's just who he is: an uber-smart academic who digs into the biggest ideas that we humans want to tackle, and brings them to his audience in meaningful ways. Aside from being a speaker, he's an author, podcast host, and teacher… and probably a dozen other things. Passion is his super-power. And in today's episode we talked about all the big ideas… like you do when you're talking with John Bucher….

Enjoy!

]]>John Bucher – a very difficult to define man of many talents (and he likes it that way) – spoke at the STORY Gathering in 2017, where I saw him share his passionate voice about story and myth. What was so great about that whole thing was that even BEFORE I saw him speak, he had volunteered to be my guinea pig speaker at my live coaching workshop.

I mean… who does that? Believe me – that's a rare thing, to vulnerably walk into that space with a coach you've just met. Well, movers, that act connected me and John for life!

What l learned about John from there is that that's just who he is: an uber-smart academic who digs into the biggest ideas that we humans want to tackle, and brings them to his audience in meaningful ways. Aside from being a speaker, he's an author, podcast host, and teacher… and probably a dozen other things. Passion is his super-power. And in today's episode we talked about all the big ideas… like you do when you're talking with John Bucher….

Knowing we want to get to clear and concise… AND - at the same time, say something NEW.

Finding the SIMPLE and still saying something TRUE and - in some way - NEW.

Whooo, that is a challenge!

And what the editing process in creating a talk is all about.

And it’s a CREATIVE PROCESS.

It’s not JUST - cutting out the stuff you don’t like/don't need.

It’s a process of digging deeper… and getting clearer on what you actually, really truly mean…

And our first drafts so rarely get there. Most of the time, it’s like skimming the cream off the top of your fancy coffee… it’s satisfying and sugary good. But that’s not where the big punch comes from. (Ha.)

When I gave my TEDx talk… the process of editing that puppy was brutal.

If you looked back on my drafts, they’d look in some ways like completely different talks… with a dslithly different focus each time, different emphasis. Every time I sat down to write, or talked it out, or explained it to someone, it shifted a little bit…

Finding clarity is a process.

So - how can we get there?

How do cut out the “fat” -

dig deeper into the truth of what we’re trying to say? -

And get to something REAL?

Here are some tips to get you started, as you evolve your talk - simultaneously digging deeper (adding content) - and cutting out what you don’t need:

1 - Find your filter: audience - what do they need, and how can you meet that need?

2 - Shift your paragraphs to statements. What do you lose? Will help you find the essence of what you’re saying.

4 - Kill your darlings. Be a brutal editor. If it helps you feel better, make another document with all your cut material. Maybe you’ll use it another time!

"If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter.” - Winston Churchill

You and me both, brother.

This is hard.

It’s a process.

And we have to stretch it both ways:

to cut out and

add complexity in its simplest form.

Find your filter.

Write in statements.

Ask “So What?”

Kill your darlings

]]>Finding clarity is a process. So - how can we get there? How do cut out the “fat” - dig deeper into the truth of what we’re trying to say? - And get to something REAL? Here are some tips to get you started, as you evolve your talk - simultaneously digging deeper (adding content) - and cutting out what you don’t need: 1 - Find your filter: audience - what do they need, and how can you meet that need? 2 - Shift your paragraphs to statements. What do you lose? Will help you find the essence of what you’re saying. 3 - Keep asking yourself, “So what?”… - this will help you dig deeper… 4 - Kill your darlings. Be a brutal editor. If it helps you feel better, make another document with all your cut material. Maybe you’ll use it another time! "If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter.” - Winston Churchill You and me both, brother. This is hard. It’s a process. And we have to stretch it both ways:

On the show today we're talking about how to successfully shift our focus away from the words - and more into the DELIVERY that comes more authentically from our bodies.

The words and content are often the 'safe' zone, and we can spend a LOT of time in there. Makes sense. Delivering it, especially in an "embodied" way, it becomes us more. It's a much higher-call, and it requires more from us.

So how? What are some simple things we can do to get our words into our body more?

Here are 5 simple ways to get the words more into your body:

]]>Hey Movers!

On the show today we're talking about how to successfully shift our focus away from the words - and more into the DELIVERY that comes more authentically from our bodies.

The words and content are often the 'safe' zone, and we can spend a LOT of time in there. Makes sense. Delivering it, especially in an "embodied" way, it becomes us more. It's a much higher-call, and it requires more from us.

So how? What are some simple things we can do to get our words into our body more?

Here are 5 simple ways to get the words more into your body:

]]>10:54nofull163: Gillian Ferrabee - On Speaking With Our BodiesWed, 07 Mar 2018 08:30:00 +0000Gillian Ferrabee - performer, speaker, Cirque de Soleil alum and talent scout... Gillian is an experienced and wise stage presence! When I got to see Gillian speak at last year's STORY Gathering in Nashville, I was so taken at how grounded and giving she was as a speaker. There was no pretense. No 'show' - even though she is such a skilled performer. She was present, in her body.

So it was no surprise that Gillian talked about being IN YOUR BODY, and dealing with what happens to us as creative people when we are putting ourselves out there.

She is full of insight - has the best giggle - and brings to all of us some essential reminders about the power of the present moment and how we as speakers can tune into it more.

]]>Gillian Ferrabee - performer, speaker, Cirque de Soleil alum and talent scout... Gillian is an experienced and wise stage presence! When I got to see Gillian speak at last year's STORY Gathering in Nashville, I was so taken at how grounded and giving she was as a speaker. There was no pretense. No 'show' - even though she is such a skilled performer. She was present, in her body.

So it was no surprise that Gillian talked about being IN YOUR BODY, and dealing with what happens to us as creative people when we are putting ourselves out there.

She is full of insight - has the best giggle - and brings to all of us some essential reminders about the power of the present moment and how we as speakers can tune into it more.

The stakes can feel high - your own expectations can drown out the clarity of what you’re trying to say.

I have BEEN THERE!

But this tactic that I use with many of my speakers to pull us out of the mire of writing, and to think about things from a bigger, broader perspective. To establish the lay of the land a bit before we go on the journey.

]]>Introducing: a super simple tool that can help jump-start writing a talk, especially when you're feeling stuck and staring at your computer.

I don't know about you, but

There’s so much I want to say!The beginning is so important… I want to ‘wow’ my audience… And make the most of the moment… And yet - HOW? The stakes can feel high - your own expectations can drown out the clarity of what you’re trying to say. I have BEEN THERE! But this tactic that I use with many of my speakers to pull us out of the mire of writing, and to think about things from a bigger, broader perspective. To establish the lay of the land a bit before we go on the journey. ]]>14:40nofull160: Taylor Croonquist - On the Nuts and Bolts of Presenting OnlineWed, 07 Feb 2018 08:30:00 +0000Taylor Croonquist - Co-Founder of Nuts and Bolts Speed Training, a PowerPoint training website and "oooh" and "aaaaah" creator - joined me on the show to talk about presenting online. Taylor is a "hack trickery" kind of guy - always finding ways to short-cut and 'break' what's not working well enough and find a way to do it better. And he and his wife Camille - along with the awesome P-Spice from Spicy Presentations - have created an online hub with over a hundred YouTube videos and online courses about ways to make PowerPoint work better for you, and faster.]]>Taylor Croonquist - Co-Founder of Nuts and Bolts Speed Training, a PowerPoint training website and "oooh" and "aaaaah" creator - joined me on the show to talk about presenting online. Taylor is a "hack trickery" kind of guy - always finding ways to short-cut and 'break' what's not working well enough and find a way to do it better. And he and his wife Camille - along with the awesome P-Spice from Spicy Presentations - have created an online hub with over a hundred YouTube videos and online courses about ways to make PowerPoint work better for you, and faster.]]>52:35nofull159: Amena Brown - On Writing A Talk Like a PoetWed, 24 Jan 2018 04:07:01 +0000Amena Brown - poet, author, speaker - is a powerhouse performer. I got to see her on stage at the STORY Gathering this past September, and immediately knew I wanted to have her on the show. She is brilliant, funny, passionate - and so incredibly thoughtful about her craft.

What moved me so much about her work on stage is that she is a poet who speaks. She is a craftswoman - focusing on the power of words. And there's so much that we can learn from her on this.

]]>Amena Brown - poet, author, speaker - is a powerhouse performer. I got to see her on stage at the STORY Gathering this past September, and immediately knew I wanted to have her on the show. She is brilliant, funny, passionate - and so incredibly thoughtful about her craft.

What moved me so much about her work on stage is that she is a poet who speaks. She is a craftswoman - focusing on the power of words. And there's so much that we can learn from her on this.

]]>49:03nofull158: Colin Stokes - On Why Talks Can Save the WorldThu, 04 Jan 2018 08:30:00 +0000Colin Stokes - TED speaker, communications and marketing professional, proud Dad, and fellow high school speech geek - sat down with me to talk about the powerful platform of speaking as perhaps THE way we might be able to create change in this world.

That's a big statement, but I happen to believe that speaking has a very specific potential to create change.

And Colin, a passionate advocate for social justice and change, agrees.

So in this episode, we dig into WHY, and HOW. Why is public speaking such a powerful force? And HOW is it such a powerful force? And how can we create more moments of transformation?

GOOD QUESTIONS! Let's do this.

]]>Colin Stokes - TED speaker, communications and marketing professional, proud Dad, and fellow high school speech geek - sat down with me to talk about the powerful platform of speaking as perhaps THE way we might be able to create change in this world.

That's a big statement, but I happen to believe that speaking has a very specific potential to create change.

And Colin, a passionate advocate for social justice and change, agrees.

So in this episode, we dig into WHY, and HOW. Why is public speaking such a powerful force? And HOW is it such a powerful force? And how can we create more moments of transformation?

GOOD QUESTIONS! Let's do this.

]]>36:22nofull157: Stephy Lewis: On the Good, Bad and Ugly of Presentation DesignThu, 02 Nov 2017 15:17:19 +0000Stephy Lewis [check out her amazing website!], presentation designer from the Presentation Guild - and my new pal from the Presentation Summit - got a chance to catch up and talk the good, bad and ugly about presentation design and development.

Even though Stephy was dragged kicking and screaming from the field of design into the field of *presentation* design, she has discovered the depth, complexity and artistry of the profession - part of the reason why she's so passionate about her role at the Presentation Guild!

Jump in with us as we talk about what bad design can do to our mental state (ha), the importance of the collaborate nature of developing presentations, and 3 keys to designing intentional presentations.

Even though Stephy was dragged kicking and screaming from the field of design into the field of *presentation* design, she has discovered the depth, complexity and artistry of the profession - part of the reason why she's so passionate about her role at the Presentation Guild!

Jump in with us as we talk about what bad design can do to our mental state (ha), the importance of the collaborate nature of developing presentations, and 3 keys to designing intentional presentations.

I've had the most exciting September... last week I shared about the top 10 essential speaking lessons from the STORY Gathering in Nashville - and I went straight from Nashville to Tampa. I was met with gorgeous beaches and weather. Not bad for a work trip. :)

But here's the deal: I wasn't sure I was going to like this conference.

Now, I had HEARD about this conference as a great conference for Power Point users and designers, but because I'm not a Power Point designer, I thought it wasn't for me. Not only am I not a designer, I'm not a huge fan of Power Point. :) I recognize it is a powerful tool - and a tool that many, many of my clients use. But I really wasn't sure there'd be much for me at this conference.

But Rick said - HECK NO - it's for any presentation professional. Well, ok!

So, off I went! I had no idea what to expect, except that a few people I had connected with online couldn't stop talking about how excited they were for it! Well, that's a good sign...

And can I say?

I loved it.

It was FULL of insight, powerful tools that I need to be aware of for my clients and that might be useful for YOU, and AMAZING PEOPLE. So, win-win-win. And, it was the most fun I've ever had at a conference, ever.

So - here are 5 of the most important takeaways from The Presentation Summit:

]]>Ah, the Presentation Summit!

I've had the most exciting September... last week I shared about the top 10 essential speaking lessons from the STORY Gathering in Nashville - and I went straight from Nashville to Tampa. I was met with gorgeous beaches and weather. Not bad for a work trip. :)

But here's the deal: I wasn't sure I was going to like this conference.

Now, I had HEARD about this conference as a great conference for Power Point users and designers, but because I'm not a Power Point designer, I thought it wasn't for me. Not only am I not a designer, I'm not a huge fan of Power Point. :) I recognize it is a powerful tool - and a tool that many, many of my clients use. But I really wasn't sure there'd be much for me at this conference.

But Rick said - HECK NO - it's for any presentation professional. Well, ok!

So, off I went! I had no idea what to expect, except that a few people I had connected with online couldn't stop talking about how excited they were for it! Well, that's a good sign...

And can I say?

I loved it.

It was FULL of insight, powerful tools that I need to be aware of for my clients and that might be useful for YOU, and AMAZING PEOPLE. So, win-win-win. And, it was the most fun I've ever had at a conference, ever.

So - here are 5 of the most important takeaways from The Presentation Summit:

]]>21:19nofull155 MMM: 10 Essential Speaking Lessons from STORY 2017Tue, 03 Oct 2017 03:29:44 +0000Last week I had the great privilege of being a part of STORY Gathering 2017 - a gathering of creatives from a wide breadth of industries, brought together by one thing: story.

I attended last year - and it was two days jam-packed with inspiration. Powerful speakers, moving music, thoughtful breakouts - and so. many. amazing. people. I was jazzed! From there, I got to interview a few of those amazing people on my show, including Brad Montague, Jason Jaggard, and Harris III.

But this year they asked me to take part. So, off I went - to Nashville - and two full days of ideas, inspiration and connections. To make the most of this experience, I wanted to jot down the best of what I'm taking with me - and wanted to share with you, in case there holds some wisdom for you as well.

]]>Last week I had the great privilege of being a part of STORY Gathering 2017 - a gathering of creatives from a wide breadth of industries, brought together by one thing: story.

I attended last year - and it was two days jam-packed with inspiration. Powerful speakers, moving music, thoughtful breakouts - and so. many. amazing. people. I was jazzed! From there, I got to interview a few of those amazing people on my show, including Brad Montague, Jason Jaggard, and Harris III.

But this year they asked me to take part. So, off I went - to Nashville - and two full days of ideas, inspiration and connections. To make the most of this experience, I wanted to jot down the best of what I'm taking with me - and wanted to share with you, in case there holds some wisdom for you as well.

]]>33:24nofull154: Brett Trapp: On Excruciating Vulnerability (and Sharing Anyway)Wed, 02 Aug 2017 14:21:50 +0000Brett Trapp of the online memoir/story/audio story Blue Babies Pink is a writer, speaker and marketing consultant whose story took my heart by storm this past spring. Brett's "Southern coming out story" has been described as the "Netflix of blogs" - and is the epitome of Brené Brown's "excruciating vulnerability." He risked a lot to tell his true story. And it's awesome.

So I was thrilled to get him on the show to talk about what it really means to tell his own true story with so much grace - and to embrace not only the need for us as speakers and leaders to speak with vulnerability, but the power of that embracing as well.

]]>Brett Trapp of the online memoir/story/audio story Blue Babies Pink is a writer, speaker and marketing consultant whose story took my heart by storm this past spring. Brett's "Southern coming out story" has been described as the "Netflix of blogs" - and is the epitome of Brené Brown's "excruciating vulnerability." He risked a lot to tell his true story. And it's awesome.

So I was thrilled to get him on the show to talk about what it really means to tell his own true story with so much grace - and to embrace not only the need for us as speakers and leaders to speak with vulnerability, but the power of that embracing as well.

]]>41:37nofull153: Lauren Pibworth - On Marketing Your GreatnessWed, 28 Jun 2017 07:30:00 +0000Lauren Pibworth of Pibworth Consulting Agency for Speakers is joining me on the show today! She is a gem - and a powerhouse for speakers, helping you do all the behind-the-scenes work to help you find your audience and speak to more people - which is really the point of all this work we're doing!

It was a delight to have her on the show - hope you enjoy!

]]>Lauren Pibworth of Pibworth Consulting Agency for Speakers is joining me on the show today! She is a gem - and a powerhouse for speakers, helping you do all the behind-the-scenes work to help you find your audience and speak to more people - which is really the point of all this work we're doing!

It was a delight to have her on the show - hope you enjoy!

]]>43:27no152: Harris III - On Creating a Magical Experience for Your AudienceWed, 24 May 2017 07:30:00 +0000Harris III - magician, producer, creative guru - and the man behind the now practically infamous STORY Gathering that I continually rave about here on the show. Yes, that's right - I went straight to the source to hear about how it all came to life - and how to create something both uncommon and universally moving - a challenging feat.

That's what I'm talking about: beauty, creativity, risk, identity, community. These themes swirl in and around the STORY crew, and it makes for an experience that will nourish your soul and challenge us to do work that really matters.

You guys - I realize that much of this sounds like a commercial for STORY. They are not paying me to say any of this. I get no kick back from this. I am just a real, live FAN because of my experience last year - and I want to see you there!

AND! And! And. (I'm excited. Can you tell?) Since I recorded this conversation, Story has asked me to be a part of the experience in September. Live coaching, anyone!? Aw yeah.

So - Let's do this! And listeners here at This Moved Me get a 10% discount if you use the code THISMOVEDME. Whoa! Do this!

Ticket prices go up by $100 on May 31st - so now is an awesome time to join in.

(And if you decide to go - let me know by sending me a quick note. I'd love to connect!)

To all: enjoy. <3

]]>Harris III - magician, producer, creative guru - and the man behind the now practically infamous STORY Gathering that I continually rave about here on the show. Yes, that's right - I went straight to the source to hear about how it all came to life - and how to create something both uncommon and universally moving - a challenging feat.

That's what I'm talking about: beauty, creativity, risk, identity, community. These themes swirl in and around the STORY crew, and it makes for an experience that will nourish your soul and challenge us to do work that really matters.

You guys - I realize that much of this sounds like a commercial for STORY. They are not paying me to say any of this. I get no kick back from this. I am just a real, live FAN because of my experience last year - and I want to see you there!

AND! And! And. (I'm excited. Can you tell?) Since I recorded this conversation, Story has asked me to be a part of the experience in September. Live coaching, anyone!? Aw yeah.

So - Let's do this! And listeners here at This Moved Me get a 10% discount if you use the code THISMOVEDME. Whoa! Do this!

Ticket prices go up by $100 on May 31st - so now is an awesome time to join in.

(And if you decide to go - let me know by sending me a quick note. I'd love to connect!)

To all: enjoy. <3

]]>54:07no151: Rick Altman - On How to Make Your Power Point Actually PowerfulWed, 17 May 2017 14:38:52 +0000Rick Altman - founder of Better Presenting and the Presentation Summit Conference - joined me on the show to talk about how we can make better presentations with better slide decks. What an important mission!

As he said, hating PowerPoint is a badge of honor for so many people - but Rick's knowledge of PowerPoint has given him a chance to see the benefits of such a powerful tool, as well how we normal humans (read: not design or software experts) can use it well - in order to serve our audience and our goals.

Rick is a passionate advocate - and brings that passion and joy into this conversation.

Enjoy!

]]>Rick Altman - founder of Better Presenting and the Presentation Summit Conference - joined me on the show to talk about how we can make better presentations with better slide decks. What an important mission!

As he said, hating PowerPoint is a badge of honor for so many people - but Rick's knowledge of PowerPoint has given him a chance to see the benefits of such a powerful tool, as well how we normal humans (read: not design or software experts) can use it well - in order to serve our audience and our goals.

Rick is a passionate advocate - and brings that passion and joy into this conversation.

Almost three years ago, I ventured into this endeavor sure that I had something to offer - but NO IDEA really how to do that, or if it would work, or how much work it would be. Turns out it was a LOT of work - and that I love it way more than I ever thought I would!

This Moved Me has challenged me to show up, and take a risk. (A muscle all of us speakers need to flex as much as we can.)

And that sometimes people dig what I do! And sometimes, they don't. And that has to be ok if I'm going to do this.

At the end of every one of my Mini Moved Me episodes for the last year or so, I have included a little something for those who stick with me to the end: a tiny little outtake - me, messing up somehow.

There may be 3 people out there who hear them - but it's not really about that.

Almost three years ago, I ventured into this endeavor sure that I had something to offer - but NO IDEA really how to do that, or if it would work, or how much work it would be. Turns out it was a LOT of work - and that I love it way more than I ever thought I would!

This Moved Me has challenged me to show up, and take a risk. (A muscle all of us speakers need to flex as much as we can.)

And that sometimes people dig what I do! And sometimes, they don't. And that has to be ok if I'm going to do this.

At the end of every one of my Mini Moved Me episodes for the last year or so, I have included a little something for those who stick with me to the end: a tiny little outtake - me, messing up somehow.

There may be 3 people out there who hear them - but it's not really about that.

It's about practicing the art of showing up, ANYWAY.

]]>13:26no149: MMM - My feedback for Chris at the TED ConferenceWed, 26 Apr 2017 16:30:42 +0000I had the awesome privilege to go and see the TED Conference Opening Session/Event on Monday night.

Well, ok - I wasn't THERE. I was watching from a movie theater. Pretty much by myself.

It was still amazing to be there and see how it's all pulled together. Unbeknownst to many people, it is not just a litany of individual talks - it really is an event.

At the end, the amazing Chris Anderson (author and TED Conference curator and overall guru of life) asked for feedback from the millions of people watching online.

I was one of those people - and I am all about feedback!

So, I took him up on his offer.

This is the feedback I sent to Chris:

Keep breaking the mold.

Get the speakers off stage.

Move towards integration rather than memorization.

These are some big ideas! Take a listen to the show to dig in with me.

AND, if you're interested in joining me for a course on INTEGRATION vs. MEMORIZATION, shoot me an email. :) I am working on it.

]]>I had the awesome privilege to go and see the TED Conference Opening Session/Event on Monday night.

Well, ok - I wasn't THERE. I was watching from a movie theater. Pretty much by myself.

It was still amazing to be there and see how it's all pulled together. Unbeknownst to many people, it is not just a litany of individual talks - it really is an event.

At the end, the amazing Chris Anderson (author and TED Conference curator and overall guru of life) asked for feedback from the millions of people watching online.

I was one of those people - and I am all about feedback!

So, I took him up on his offer.

This is the feedback I sent to Chris:

Keep breaking the mold.

Get the speakers off stage.

Move towards integration rather than memorization.

These are some big ideas! Take a listen to the show to dig in with me.

AND, if you're interested in joining me for a course on INTEGRATION vs. MEMORIZATION, shoot me an email. :) I am working on it.

]]>20:24no148: MMM - Speaking Truths #7: If you want to be transformative, there are no shortcutsWed, 19 Apr 2017 07:30:00 +0000Welcome to the Speaking Truths series!

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we’re facing a speaking truth that most people know – but we don’t often talk about: If we want to be transformative, there are no shortcuts!

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we’re facing a speaking truth that most people know – but we don’t often talk about: If we want to be transformative, there are no shortcuts!

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we’re facing a speaking truth that most people know – but we don’t often talk about: Audiences are Generous! - IF we are generous with them.

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we’re facing a speaking truth that most people know – but we don’t often talk about: Audiences are Generous! - IF we are generous with them.

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we're facing a speaking truth that most people know - but we don't often talk about: Speaking Brings Us to the Truth of Ourselves. Uff-da!

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we're facing a speaking truth that most people know - but we don't often talk about: Speaking Brings Us to the Truth of Ourselves. Uff-da!

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we continue the series with Speaking Truth #4: Stories are the Pathway to Empathy.

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Today we continue the series with Speaking Truth #4: Stories are the Pathway to Empathy.

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

Regardless of how capable or skilled or experienced or savvy we are, too many of us struggle to fully embrace the power and importance of sharing our voice.

We need to stand up - speak up - grounded in our authentic and courageous and clear voice. Even in that business meeting. Even in that workshop you've done a zillion times. Especially in that TED talk.

But over the last two decades I've worked with too many speakers who hold themselves back by myths and ideas that are not grounded in truth. So, I decided to create a manifesto of sorts!

(If you haven't yet downloaded the pdf, do that now. If you want in on the more intensive and free email course on the subject that has added resources, reflection questions and some random goodies - you can sign up for that here!)

]]>10:00no141: Kid President's Brad Montague - On Creativity With a PurposeWed, 29 Mar 2017 09:30:00 +0000Brad Montague - creator of Kid President, creative genius, Founder of the Montague Workshop, and an overall wonderful human! As the creator of Kid President, Brad brought a message of hope and joy to life with his brother-in-law, Robbie. Together they created a "joy rebellion" that has inspired millions - and which compelled him up on stage, continuing to create videos and stories that bring light and joy into the world.

I had the great pleasure of seeing Brad up on stage at the STORY Gathering last year - and since then we've been trying to arrange a conversation. It finally happened! And I couldn't be more excited to share with you a glimpse into Brad's kindness, insight and purpose - and his message for all of us:

If we can bring purpose and intention to our creative work - it works magic.

Such a joy to have you on the show, Brad!

To all: enjoy. <3

]]>Brad Montague - creator of Kid President, creative genius, Founder of the Montague Workshop, and an overall wonderful human! As the creator of Kid President, Brad brought a message of hope and joy to life with his brother-in-law, Robbie. Together they created a "joy rebellion" that has inspired millions - and which compelled him up on stage, continuing to create videos and stories that bring light and joy into the world.

I had the great pleasure of seeing Brad up on stage at the STORY Gathering last year - and since then we've been trying to arrange a conversation. It finally happened! And I couldn't be more excited to share with you a glimpse into Brad's kindness, insight and purpose - and his message for all of us:

If we can bring purpose and intention to our creative work - it works magic.

I think there’s a reason why so many people (like, 23 million! - and counting) have enjoyed this video: because it is real life ramming up against these facades we create for the sake of our image.

I’m guessing this is not how Mr. Expert (real name, Professor Robert Kelly, bless his heart) expected to be ‘put on the map.’ But here he is! And, to his and his wife’s credit, they are embracing it. And I love them for it. LOVE THEM.

But I keep thinking... If that had been me, what would I have done?

]]>It is maybe the best thing I've ever seen, ever.

I think there’s a reason why so many people (like, 23 million! - and counting) have enjoyed this video: because it is real life ramming up against these facades we create for the sake of our image.

I’m guessing this is not how Mr. Expert (real name, Professor Robert Kelly, bless his heart) expected to be ‘put on the map.’ But here he is! And, to his and his wife’s credit, they are embracing it. And I love them for it. LOVE THEM.

But I keep thinking... If that had been me, what would I have done?

]]>14:48no139: MMM - On Choosing the Right Presentation Coach For You!Mon, 13 Mar 2017 19:00:44 +0000How do you choose the right presentation coach for you? It's a personal process - so the connection should be personal, too. Here are 3 key questions to ask yourself to help you find the right one for you! ]]>How do you choose the right presentation coach for you? It's a personal process - so the connection should be personal, too. Here are 3 key questions to ask yourself to help you find the right one for you! ]]>13:55no138: Jason Freeman - On Owning Your VoiceMon, 06 Mar 2017 17:12:13 +0000Jason Freeman - a writer, public speaker and Bravery Coach. His love of self and openness are some of the many superpowers he has as a speaker. He talks a lot about how the self-imposed limitations in our minds may prevent us from creating extraordinary lives. Jason himself has had to overcome hurdles in his mind, including not allowing his speech impediment to prevent him from using his voice to share his message. It's such a pleasure and honor to know you, Jason!]]>Jason Freeman - a writer, public speaker and Bravery Coach. His love of self and openness are some of the many superpowers he has as a speaker. He talks a lot about how the self-imposed limitations in our minds may prevent us from creating extraordinary lives. Jason himself has had to overcome hurdles in his mind, including not allowing his speech impediment to prevent him from using his voice to share his message. It's such a pleasure and honor to know you, Jason!]]>45:42no137: Ryan Hildebrandt - On Landing a TED TalkTue, 28 Feb 2017 16:33:16 +0000Ryan Hildebrandt – a TEDx founder, creator, podcaster, traveler and a total adventure seeker. I love that he has a zeal for learning and creating new things. As someone who has founded and organized several TEDx events, he has reviewed numerous applications. He knows what works and doesn't work. Many speakers dream of giving a TED talk, but a lot of them don't know what makes an effective speaker application, or if their idea really is strong enough. Ryan talks about all these things and more!]]>Ryan Hildebrandt – a TEDx founder, creator, podcaster, traveler and a total adventure seeker. I love that he has a zeal for learning and creating new things. As someone who has founded and organized several TEDx events, he has reviewed numerous applications. He knows what works and doesn't work. Many speakers dream of giving a TED talk, but a lot of them don't know what makes an effective speaker application, or if their idea really is strong enough. Ryan talks about all these things and more!]]>56:06no136: MMM - On Quick Coaching!Mon, 20 Feb 2017 23:23:17 +0000Introducing: TMM Quick Coaching! Quick, personalized coaching to help you take your talk to the next level. ]]>Introducing: TMM Quick Coaching! Quick, personalized coaching to help you take your talk to the next level. ]]>14:41no135: MMM Q&A - On Getting the Content Into Your BodyMon, 13 Feb 2017 19:56:40 +0000"Sally, you talk about getting the content into you body. Sounds nice, but I have no idea what you mean by that. How do I do that?"

We are not writers - we are SPEAKERS. Speakers take the written word and become it. Can you tell a speaker who really wishes she was just writing it, and you were just reading it? Yeah - not too compelling.

The process of moving the content from something that is just bouncing around in your head to something that is living in your BODY takes two things:

]]>"Sally, you talk about getting the content into you body. Sounds nice, but I have no idea what you mean by that. How do I do that?"

We are not writers - we are SPEAKERS. Speakers take the written word and become it. Can you tell a speaker who really wishes she was just writing it, and you were just reading it? Yeah - not too compelling.

The process of moving the content from something that is just bouncing around in your head to something that is living in your BODY takes two things:

]]>09:41no134: Jan Schultink: On Making Your Slides MagicMon, 06 Feb 2017 18:45:43 +0000Jan Schultink - founder and CEO of SlideMagic - is a former McKinsey consultant who is now an internationally recognized designer. Jan understands both business and design, and he uses his expertise to help people develop their content and design their slides. Speakers, Jan's insight is invaluable if you want to create effective, well-designed presentation slides that can engage

Movers, Jan's insight is invaluable if you want to create effective, well-designed presentation slides that can engage an audience! (And of course we do!)

]]>Jan Schultink - founder and CEO of SlideMagic - is a former McKinsey consultant who is now an internationally recognized designer. Jan understands both business and design, and he uses his expertise to help people develop their content and design their slides. Speakers, Jan's insight is invaluable if you want to create effective, well-designed presentation slides that can engage

Movers, Jan's insight is invaluable if you want to create effective, well-designed presentation slides that can engage an audience! (And of course we do!)

This man, from an early age, taught me that words can move the world. HE moved the world. And today - especially now, in this age that feels like we're reeling backward in some ways - I want to highlight what we as speakers can learn from MLK and pay homage to him through his incredible speech, "I Have a Dream."

And so, I couldn't think of a better speech to start the TMM Talk Club with. The idea behind the TMM Talk Club is to analyze a speech - pull it apart a bit - and think through what the key elements are so that we can learn from them, and bring more of these ideas into our own work. [More on the TMM Talk Club soon!]

So what did MLK do especially well? These three things:

]]>Happy Martin Luther King Day!

This man, from an early age, taught me that words can move the world. HE moved the world. And today - especially now, in this age that feels like we're reeling backward in some ways - I want to highlight what we as speakers can learn from MLK and pay homage to him through his incredible speech, "I Have a Dream."

And so, I couldn't think of a better speech to start the TMM Talk Club with. The idea behind the TMM Talk Club is to analyze a speech - pull it apart a bit - and think through what the key elements are so that we can learn from them, and bring more of these ideas into our own work. [More on the TMM Talk Club soon!]

So what did MLK do especially well? These three things:

]]>13:27no132: Jason Jaggard - On the Mindset of a Creative LeaderWed, 11 Jan 2017 10:30:00 +0000Jason Jaggard - a coach, speaker, social innovator for cultural change and CEO/Founder of Spark Good and consultant with Novus Global. I got the chance to see Jason speak at Story2016 in Nashville this fall, and he was excellent. Funny, insightful, bold. I was so inspired by what I heard that I went to his breakout session - which BLEW MY MIND. I literally wrote a billion things on my notes (well, ok, not a *billion*, but close). I still think about his ideas and insights and try to apply them to my work and life.

While I was sitting in the audience of his talk and his breakout session, I thought to myself again and again, speakers need these same mindsets.

In fact, we ALL do. Anyone doing creative work that yearns to influence requires something big in us as creators. What do we need? Well, take a listen!

]]>Jason Jaggard - a coach, speaker, social innovator for cultural change and CEO/Founder of Spark Good and consultant with Novus Global. I got the chance to see Jason speak at Story2016 in Nashville this fall, and he was excellent. Funny, insightful, bold. I was so inspired by what I heard that I went to his breakout session - which BLEW MY MIND. I literally wrote a billion things on my notes (well, ok, not a *billion*, but close). I still think about his ideas and insights and try to apply them to my work and life.

While I was sitting in the audience of his talk and his breakout session, I thought to myself again and again, speakers need these same mindsets.

In fact, we ALL do. Anyone doing creative work that yearns to influence requires something big in us as creators. What do we need? Well, take a listen!

]]>48:32no131: MMM - On Editing Til it HurtsMon, 09 Jan 2017 08:30:00 +0000"I know I need to cut some of my talk… but I hate to lose any of this material. It’s ALL important to me! How do you decide what to cut?"

I say a lot in my workshops and with my clients that you know you’re getting to the good stuff when it really hurts to edit your talk. “Edit until it hurts.” Ok, it hurts! It hurts! Now what?

Listen in!

]]>"I know I need to cut some of my talk… but I hate to lose any of this material. It’s ALL important to me! How do you decide what to cut?"

I say a lot in my workshops and with my clients that you know you’re getting to the good stuff when it really hurts to edit your talk. “Edit until it hurts.” Ok, it hurts! It hurts! Now what?

One of my favorite ways to end the year is to ask the simple question, "What's something that's moved you this year?"

This year I asked the question to my family as we gathered together at my parents' cabin in Wisconsin. (They really had very little choice in the matter - thanks, Fam!) The responses varied - from the simple to the sweet to the sad and complicated. Another year in the books - and another chance to reflect.

]]>Happy New Year!

One of my favorite ways to end the year is to ask the simple question, "What's something that's moved you this year?"

This year I asked the question to my family as we gathered together at my parents' cabin in Wisconsin. (They really had very little choice in the matter - thanks, Fam!) The responses varied - from the simple to the sweet to the sad and complicated. Another year in the books - and another chance to reflect.

Haha, I thought this would be a good one to start with on my Q & A episode.

Ok - I hear this one a lot. I know, I know - it’s improv vs. your scripted scene. It’s unpredictable, can be scary - and oh my goodness, what if I get challenged??

Here are a few things that might help:

]]>“Sally, I hate Q&A’s! Help!”

Haha, I thought this would be a good one to start with on my Q & A episode.

Ok - I hear this one a lot. I know, I know - it’s improv vs. your scripted scene. It’s unpredictable, can be scary - and oh my goodness, what if I get challenged??

Here are a few things that might help:

]]>15:13no127: On One Way Creativity Works - a StoryWed, 07 Dec 2016 08:30:00 +0000Once upon a time, there was a savvy business woman. She tried to write a talk, but the words wouldn't come. Every time she sat down to write her talk, it didn't work! What to do, What to do? Well - listen up: ]]>Once upon a time, there was a savvy business woman. She tried to write a talk, but the words wouldn't come. Every time she sat down to write her talk, it didn't work! What to do, What to do? Well - listen up: ]]>10:37no126: Angela Lussier - On Speaking for EmpowermentMon, 21 Nov 2016 08:30:00 +0000Angela Lussier is an award-winning speaker, founder of Speaking School for Women, author of three books, speech coach and host of Claim the Stage podcast. Recently, I had the pleasure to be a guest on her podcast (Episode 23 called "Hairy Authenticity" - I know, I love the title too!). Angela's mantra is "Stop waiting. Start creating." She inspires her listeners to take the most important, often-feared, first step towards their calling, and to keep going.

Angela, I am thankful for this very important, timely conversation with you! We have a great opportunity and responsibility to use our voice and empower other women to do the same.

]]>Angela Lussier is an award-winning speaker, founder of Speaking School for Women, author of three books, speech coach and host of Claim the Stage podcast. Recently, I had the pleasure to be a guest on her podcast (Episode 23 called "Hairy Authenticity" - I know, I love the title too!). Angela's mantra is "Stop waiting. Start creating." She inspires her listeners to take the most important, often-feared, first step towards their calling, and to keep going.

Angela, I am thankful for this very important, timely conversation with you! We have a great opportunity and responsibility to use our voice and empower other women to do the same.

]]>46:46no125: Harriet Turk - On Keeping it RealMon, 07 Nov 2016 08:30:00 +0000Harriet Turk is a speaker, trainer, and consultant who has a wealth of experience working with teens and adults. Her strength lies in her desire to teach and speak from the heart. Harriet meets her audience on their level, thereby inspiring change.

Speakers, this is a thought-provoking interview that you don't want to miss! Harriet, this was such a fun and honest conversation.

]]>47:24no124: Vikas Narula - On Speaking and InfluenceMon, 24 Oct 2016 07:30:00 +0000Vikas Narula is an entrepreneur, influencer, and owner of Keyhubs. He has perspectives on life that helps others see things that are most important. We talked about how speakers can overcome the disconnect between themselves and their audience by understanding the power of influence and connection. We shared our thoughts on the importance of creative expression and the core concepts that transform speakers to influencers. Vikas, thank you for sharing such compelling and optimistic insights!]]>Vikas Narula is an entrepreneur, influencer, and owner of Keyhubs. He has perspectives on life that helps others see things that are most important. We talked about how speakers can overcome the disconnect between themselves and their audience by understanding the power of influence and connection. We shared our thoughts on the importance of creative expression and the core concepts that transform speakers to influencers. Vikas, thank you for sharing such compelling and optimistic insights!]]>46:43no123: David C. Mann - On Bringing the Wisdom of Theater to Our TalksMon, 10 Oct 2016 07:30:00 +0000David C. Mann is an acclaimed speaker, award-winning theater artist, and presentation coach. David has a way of grabbing and holding his audience's attention with his honesty, energy and humor. It is evident from his interactions and presentations that he has a great understanding of human intricacies. He helps people overcome the hurdles in their mind, guides them in practical ways to find their "inner human" and inspires them to keep telling their story.

David, thanks for bringing so much of yourself to this interview.

]]>David C. Mann is an acclaimed speaker, award-winning theater artist, and presentation coach. David has a way of grabbing and holding his audience's attention with his honesty, energy and humor. It is evident from his interactions and presentations that he has a great understanding of human intricacies. He helps people overcome the hurdles in their mind, guides them in practical ways to find their "inner human" and inspires them to keep telling their story.

David, thanks for bringing so much of yourself to this interview.

]]>38:37no122: Josh Johnson - On Connecting Through VideoMon, 26 Sep 2016 07:30:00 +0000Joshua Johnson is a geocacher, YouTuber (as the Geocaching Vlogger) and speaker. Since his first YouTube video in 2011, Josh's curiosity has taken him around the world in pursuit of geocaches and meaningful connections. His contagious, playful attitude has earned him a respectful spot in the ever-growing, evolving, sometimes scary world of YouTube. He creates and delivers niche content in a way that resonates with his audience.

In this episode, I dig into Josh's mind to learn how he embraces the risks, challenges and unique opportunities of YouTube, while being his authentic, spirited and joyful self!

]]>Geocaching Vlogger) and speaker. Since his first YouTube video in 2011, Josh's curiosity has taken him around the world in pursuit of geocaches and meaningful connections. His contagious, playful attitude has earned him a respectful spot in the ever-growing, evolving, sometimes scary world of YouTube. He creates and delivers niche content in a way that resonates with his audience. In this episode, I dig into Josh's mind to learn how he embraces the risks, challenges and unique opportunities of YouTube, while being his authentic, spirited and joyful self!]]>50:39no121: MMM - How to Present Without a Technical GlitchMon, 12 Sep 2016 07:30:00 +0000I don't know about you, but I'm not an especially techy person. I've had to learn to muddle through because part-and-parcel to being a speaker is having some technical know-how, or you'll find yourself up a creek without a paddle. If you know what I mean.

How on earth do we present without a technical glitch?

]]>15:16no120: Scott Jones - On Starting Over with SpeakingWed, 31 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000Scott C. Jones - comedian, TV host, writer - and now a speaker! - has joined me on the show as a budding speaker with a wide performance background. Scott's story is powerful. He's been in front of the TV camera for years; and after a health setback, he's found himself recreating his presence, and his story. We talk about risk, our stories, saying yes, learning from our work, the craft of expressing ourselves - and the wonderful ways we find ourselves in this arena.

Scott, I'm a fan! Thanks for reaching out - and for sharing your story with us!

]]>Scott C. Jones - comedian, TV host, writer - and now a speaker! - has joined me on the show as a budding speaker with a wide performance background. Scott's story is powerful. He's been in front of the TV camera for years; and after a health setback, he's found himself recreating his presence, and his story. We talk about risk, our stories, saying yes, learning from our work, the craft of expressing ourselves - and the wonderful ways we find ourselves in this arena.

Scott, I'm a fan! Thanks for reaching out - and for sharing your story with us!

]]>49:27no119: MMM - On Feedback, Part Four: Honest and HelpfulFri, 26 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000Aside from "Starting with an A" and "Leggo-ing Your Ego" and "Investing in the Relationship" - you need to be sure that feedback is both honest AND helpful. It's a simple filter, that asks just a little more of both the feedback give and the feedback receiver. ]]>Aside from "Starting with an A" and "Leggo-ing Your Ego" and "Investing in the Relationship" - you need to be sure that feedback is both honest AND helpful. It's a simple filter, that asks just a little more of both the feedback give and the feedback receiver. ]]>08:04no118: John Zimmer - On Cross-Training Your SpeakingWed, 24 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000John Zimmer - lawyer, Toastmasters master, speaker, improviser and communications coach - joined me for a conversation about how we can bring the art of communication to ANY opportunity you have. Whether you're in a courtroom, or giving a TED talk, doing improv, sitting in an interview, or standing in front of your coworkers for a meeting - these skills are essential to moving your audience.

I love John's breadth of experience - and how he brings these skills to so many arenas. As he says, "The more ways you can speak, the better the speaker you can become."

]]>John Zimmer - lawyer, Toastmasters master, speaker, improviser and communications coach - joined me for a conversation about how we can bring the art of communication to ANY opportunity you have. Whether you're in a courtroom, or giving a TED talk, doing improv, sitting in an interview, or standing in front of your coworkers for a meeting - these skills are essential to moving your audience.

I love John's breadth of experience - and how he brings these skills to so many arenas. As he says, "The more ways you can speak, the better the speaker you can become."

Simply put - you cannot grow through feedback unless you have a relationship with each other. Without a relationship, there might be some food for thought given and perhaps integrated - but likely discarded. Trust. It's what's for feedback dinner.

]]>06:27no116: LTYM - On Becoming a StorytellerWed, 17 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000In May, I participated in a Listen To Your Mother event. Have you heard of Listen To Your Mother? You may have heard my interview with LTYM founder Ann Imig from last fall, or perhaps you've been in the audience of one of the 41 shows that takes place throughout the country. Or, maybe you've run across the LTYM YouTube channel, with their hundreds of talks from the last 7 years! Or the book.

And even with all that, if you haven't heard of LTYM, now you know. And now you've gotta get yourself to one of these events!

in this episode I talk with three people who took part in this spring's Twin Cities show - Junita Flowers, Vikki Reich and Liz Sjaastad. Enjoy!

]]>In May, I participated in a Listen To Your Mother event. Have you heard of Listen To Your Mother? You may have heard my interview with LTYM founder Ann Imig from last fall, or perhaps you've been in the audience of one of the 41 shows that takes place throughout the country. Or, maybe you've run across the LTYM YouTube channel, with their hundreds of talks from the last 7 years! Or the book.

And even with all that, if you haven't heard of LTYM, now you know. And now you've gotta get yourself to one of these events!

in this episode I talk with three people who took part in this spring's Twin Cities show - Junita Flowers, Vikki Reich and Liz Sjaastad. Enjoy!

]]>21:56no115: MMM - On Feedback, Part Two: Leggo Your EgoFri, 12 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000We most often think of asking people who are receiving feedback to let go of their egos... See it as a gift... do not defend or explain yourself... Not getting defensive in the midst of receiving feedback can be a Herculean effort sometimes - depending on who is giving it. It is an incredibly human and vulnerable moment.

And here's the thing. It should be a vulnerable moment for the feedback giver, too.

(And, I personally think sometimes there's helpful information in the explanation if the person is truly open to what you're saying.)

Can you approach this conversation with curiosity? Without all the answers? interested in how the other person might be interested in solving the problems that you see or that you are experiencing? Assuming the other person's best interests are at the forefront?

And I know, I know - sometimes the other person's best interests AREN'T at the heart of things. I've been there. When I first started coaching, I was so focused on proving myself, I took the speaker down to show how much I knew. Ugh. That was Ego, and I regret it.

Or when a speaker cannot HEAR what you're trying to say because they are so protective of what they have created. Their ego is getting in the way of learning, growing and the possibility of more. I get it - it's crazy-vulnerable and, if you and your story and your heart are in your talk, it can feel - and be - personally painful to not just stand up and say it, but to hear that it's not ok as it is.

Which is why we must all step into these conversations having LEGGO of our Egos.

]]>See it as a gift... do not defend or explain yourself... Not getting defensive in the midst of receiving feedback can be a Herculean effort sometimes - depending on who is giving it. It is an incredibly human and vulnerable moment. And here's the thing. It should be a vulnerable moment for the feedback giver, too. (And, I personally think sometimes there's helpful information in the explanation if the person is truly open to what you're saying.) Can you approach this conversation with curiosity? Without all the answers? interested in how the other person might be interested in solving the problems that you see or that you are experiencing? Assuming the other person's best interests are at the forefront? And I know, I know - sometimes the other person's best interests AREN'T at the heart of things. I've been there. When I first started coaching, I was so focused on proving myself, I took the speaker down to show how much I knew. Ugh. That was Ego, and I regret it. Or when a speaker cannot HEAR what you're trying to say because they are so protective of what they have created. Their ego is getting in the way of learning, growing and the possibility of more. I get it - it's crazy-vulnerable and, if you and your story and your heart are in your talk, it can feel - and be - personally painful to not just stand up and say it, but to hear that it's not ok as it is. Which is why we must all step into these conversations having LEGGO of our Egos.]]>06:26no114: Vanessa Van Edwards - On the Science of PresentingWed, 10 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000Vanessa Van Edwards - scientist and speaker - joined me for a conversation about how to present yourself... or, as I almost titled this episode: How Not to Be Awkward. Why is Vanessa the expert on this topic? As a "recovering awkward person" herself, she approached the soft skills of presenting, love, and influence - studying it like she studies science. And through that she has been able to bring to light some key lessons for all of us on the science of influence, charisma and presenting ourselves with confidence and credibility.

]]>Vanessa Van Edwards - scientist and speaker - joined me for a conversation about how to present yourself... or, as I almost titled this episode: How Not to Be Awkward. Why is Vanessa the expert on this topic? As a "recovering awkward person" herself, she approached the soft skills of presenting, love, and influence - studying it like she studies science. And through that she has been able to bring to light some key lessons for all of us on the science of influence, charisma and presenting ourselves with confidence and credibility. ]]>37:25no113: MMM - On Feedback, Part One: Give Them an A!Fri, 05 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000

I always ask for feedback on my coaching, speaking and trainings. Partly because I want to be sure that what I'm doing is working and I want to know ways I can get better - but also because I give so much darn feedback it only feels right to offer people a chance to give some to me.

And one of the things I hear again and again is that I have a way of giving candid feedback in a loving way. In a way that people appreciate and hear and can learn from. It's one of the highest compliments that I have received in my work, and I appreciate it greatly - not only because it makes me an effective coach, but because that's how I want to do business. I want to help people be better speakers, but I also want to hold people up and celebrate them. I love people. And I want them to FEEL good, as well as do good work. And there was a time when I wondered if you could do both. That's an old paradigm of thinking - and I'm so glad to de-bunk it. You can do both. In fact, I think all things work best when you can do both.

Not that there aren't times when you're giving a hard message that isn't welcome; that happens a lot. It's part of the job. And I'm often hired to do exactly that (give the tough messages). But who cares? - and does it even matter? - if people feel deflated and defeated after the message? It doesn't.

So - as I start this series on Feedback for the next few Fridays, I wanted to share with you 4 key ideas that are essential in giving and receiving feedback in a way that makes us better, all the way around:

On Feedback, Part 1: Start with an A

]]>On Feedback, Part 1: Start with an A]]>09:48no112: Rob Bell - On How Speaking is SpiritualWed, 03 Aug 2016 07:30:00 +0000Happy Season 3! This is big, friends. I had the huge honor of having a 45-minute conversation with the amazing Rob Bell. In fact, I call him that so often I think he should just change his name to "the amazing Rob Bell."

Here's the technicalities of his impressive bio:

Rob Bell is The New York Times bestselling author of Love Wins, What We Talk About When We Talk about God, The Zimzum of Love and his most recent book How To Be Here. iTunes named his podcast, The RobCast, Best of 2015. He’s been profiled in The New Yorker, he’s toured with Oprah on her Life You Want Tour, and in 2011 Time Magazine named him one of the 100 Most Influential People In The World. He has a regular show at Largo, the legendary music and comedy club in West Hollywood and is currently touring his How To Be Here Experience around the world. He and his wife Kristen have three children and live in Los Angeles.

But here's what I've learned by watching his talks (inspiring, and a masterclass in the craft of speaking) and listening to his podcast (love it, one of my faves) and reading his books (smarty and awesome): Rob Bell is the real deal, and he is led by an internal compass and a sincere quest to follow his curiosity and soak up the life that is in front of him. He is smart. He is funny. He is grounded. He is not afraid to change his life and challenge others, and speak up. And after a brief 45-minute conversation, I felt like we were friends. I hope that's true, because he is a good person to have in this world. I have benefitted from him just being here.

So what I'm saying, movers, is that it's not just a really impressive and long list of accolades; it could be infinitely longer if you named all the people he's impacted, inspired, and changed.

]]>Happy Season 3! This is big, friends. I had the huge honor of having a 45-minute conversation with the amazing Rob Bell. In fact, I call him that so often I think he should just change his name to "the amazing Rob Bell."

Here's the technicalities of his impressive bio:

Rob Bell is The New York Times bestselling author of Love Wins, What We Talk About When We Talk about God, The Zimzum of Love and his most recent book How To Be Here. iTunes named his podcast, The RobCast, Best of 2015. He’s been profiled in The New Yorker, he’s toured with Oprah on her Life You Want Tour, and in 2011 Time Magazine named him one of the 100 Most Influential People In The World. He has a regular show at Largo, the legendary music and comedy club in West Hollywood and is currently touring his How To Be Here Experience around the world. He and his wife Kristen have three children and live in Los Angeles.

But here's what I've learned by watching his talks (inspiring, and a masterclass in the craft of speaking) and listening to his podcast (love it, one of my faves) and reading his books (smarty and awesome): Rob Bell is the real deal, and he is led by an internal compass and a sincere quest to follow his curiosity and soak up the life that is in front of him. He is smart. He is funny. He is grounded. He is not afraid to change his life and challenge others, and speak up. And after a brief 45-minute conversation, I felt like we were friends. I hope that's true, because he is a good person to have in this world. I have benefitted from him just being here.

So what I'm saying, movers, is that it's not just a really impressive and long list of accolades; it could be infinitely longer if you named all the people he's impacted, inspired, and changed.

]]>47:45no111: MMM - On a Memorizing TrickWed, 29 Jun 2016 07:30:00 +0000It’s Mini Moved Me day! Today I want to talk with you about a little memorizing trick I use when I’m trying to get the content of my talk to move from my head and really sink into my body.]]>It’s Mini Moved Me day! Today I want to talk with you about a little memorizing trick I use when I’m trying to get the content of my talk to move from my head and really sink into my body.]]>09:20no110: MMM - On Power and Stories and OrlandoWed, 22 Jun 2016 07:30:00 +0000I wrote this piece over on my This Moved Me Facebook page, and it resonated. I wanted to record this to share with more of you - and to remind us all how powerful our voices are. ]]>I wrote this piece over on my This Moved Me Facebook page, and it resonated. I wanted to record this to share with more of you - and to remind us all how powerful our voices are. ]]>06:59no109: Margie and Elena - On The Mindset of InnovationWed, 15 Jun 2016 07:30:00 +0000Margi Simmons and Elena Imaretska - two brilliant and creative speakers - both call the Brave New Workshop their professional home. The Brave New Workshop is an improv theater that may sound familiar to you because they are famous for being the longest running improv comedy troupe in the country.

Super cool, since Margi spent years on that stage. And Elena spent years dancing and performing. They both have respective chops as performers and creative leaders that make them "expert."

But they also do this work because they believe something much deeper happens when we take the risk and step out on stage. The skills and mindset and courage that improvisors are challenged to show are the same skills that can help us become great leaders - and, of course, great speakers.

So, I got to sit down with them both at the BNW's new amazing space (so, sorry for the echoey sound) - and talk about how we can take the innovative mindset out on stage with us.

Super cool, since Margi spent years on that stage. And Elena spent years dancing and performing. They both have respective chops as performers and creative leaders that make them "expert."

But they also do this work because they believe something much deeper happens when we take the risk and step out on stage. The skills and mindset and courage that improvisors are challenged to show are the same skills that can help us become great leaders - and, of course, great speakers.

So, I got to sit down with them both at the BNW's new amazing space (so, sorry for the echoey sound) - and talk about how we can take the innovative mindset out on stage with us.

]]>46:00no108: REBROADCAST - Rita Boersma, On Story TruthWed, 08 Jun 2016 07:30:00 +0000Rita Boersma has been with me since the beginning. Literally! She was my first guest way back in 2014 - and I thought it was time to bring her back to the forefront. Why? Because Rita is someone who brings her talent and insight so beautifully to her creations that I'm often in awe of what she can do. She is brilliant and funny - as a writer, a speaker, a coach and an improviser. And together, we've made some cool stuff. So if you're new to us here at This Moved Me and haven't gone all the way back to the beginning - enjoy this little gem... the sound system wasn't up to par; the equipment was mediocre; but the conversation was rich. Enjoy! ]]>Rita Boersma has been with me since the beginning. Literally! She was my first guest way back in 2014 - and I thought it was time to bring her back to the forefront. Why? Because Rita is someone who brings her talent and insight so beautifully to her creations that I'm often in awe of what she can do. She is brilliant and funny - as a writer, a speaker, a coach and an improviser. And together, we've made some cool stuff. So if you're new to us here at This Moved Me and haven't gone all the way back to the beginning - enjoy this little gem... the sound system wasn't up to par; the equipment was mediocre; but the conversation was rich. Enjoy! ]]>41:46no107: REBROADCAST- Hank Fortener, on Crafting a TalkWed, 01 Jun 2016 07:30:00 +0000In this republication of one of my most popular episodes EVER on This Moved Me, Hank Fortener and I delve into HOW he creates talks week after week with the same kind of passion and intentionality that he brings to each talk. Hank is a talk-crafting master, thanks to the thousands of hours he has spent building and re-building talk after talk. In this slightly longer episode (I just couldn't cut anything!) - Hank shares his insights, ideas and approaches to crafting a talk.]]>In this republication of one of my most popular episodes EVER on This Moved Me, Hank Fortener and I delve into HOW he creates talks week after week with the same kind of passion and intentionality that he brings to each talk. Hank is a talk-crafting master, thanks to the thousands of hours he has spent building and re-building talk after talk. In this slightly longer episode (I just couldn't cut anything!) - Hank shares his insights, ideas and approaches to crafting a talk.]]>37:18no106: Mini Moved Me - On Breaking Down the 4th WallWed, 25 May 2016 07:30:00 +0000So today's Mini Moved Me is all about two very simple ways you can break through that 4th wall and set a tone of connection with your audience.

Seek out the people in your audience who can bring the rest with them - and then share something together. For me, for years, it was finding the 7th grade boys who know how to do the worm. They do the worm, we cheer them on, and now we're buddies. Now we have a common connection.

And secondly, make sure you get out from the front table and make it your deal to get really curious about the people in the room. Get their advice, find out who they are and what they're thinking. (You will know based on more than just what they say, btw. Their body language will say it all.)

Two easy things. I've got a bunch more strategies - but this is supposed to be a "mini" moved me, so we'll have to say them for later.

]]>So today's Mini Moved Me is all about two very simple ways you can break through that 4th wall and set a tone of connection with your audience.

Seek out the people in your audience who can bring the rest with them - and then share something together. For me, for years, it was finding the 7th grade boys who know how to do the worm. They do the worm, we cheer them on, and now we're buddies. Now we have a common connection.

And secondly, make sure you get out from the front table and make it your deal to get really curious about the people in the room. Get their advice, find out who they are and what they're thinking. (You will know based on more than just what they say, btw. Their body language will say it all.)

Two easy things. I've got a bunch more strategies - but this is supposed to be a "mini" moved me, so we'll have to say them for later.